Dubai: At least 500 students and various organisations in Dubai took part in Friday’s Be a Cause programme aimed at re-educating expatriates on Filipino values and respect for UAE culture.
The event was held under the guidance of the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department and the Consulate General of the Philippines, and with the participation of the Overseas Filipino Civil Engineers’ Association (Ofcea), The Philippine School and Bagong Bayani Awardee (Modern Hero Awardee) Wafa Kasimieh.
Informative discussions were held, starting with a symposium led by Philippine Consul General Benito Valeriano, who spoke on Philippine foreign service and the lives and problems of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) today.
Rev. Fr. Tomasito Veneracion also gave a speech on the expatriate worker’s life away from home and the moral and spiritual responsibilities involved. Veneracion focused on the importance of building a strong relationship with family.
Expert Dr. Mohammad Ayada Al Khobaisi explained the laws and traditions of the UAE and the obligations and expectations from Filipino migrant workers.
The movie on the life of Philippine national hero Jose Rizal was also screened at the symposium. The film struck a chord with Filipino expatriates.
“As an OFW, I am working hard in order to help and support my family in the Philippines. I’ve been a cause for helping our less fortunate fellow Filipinos as I involve myself to various charitable works as an individual and as part of an organisation as well… We show how competitive we are from others. Like what our national hero Dr. Jose P. Rizal had done. We can be a hero too in our own little ways,” said Teresa Joy Cabanban, an Ofcea member.
“With hands ready to accept every responsibility and challenges, we are proud that being a Filipino, we are known for being hospitable, friendly, helpful and courteous,” said Maria Fe Dayot, Ofcea Vice President.
